Opening the 2026 season away from home wasn't a problem for Minnesota State on Friday night. Number 15 ranked Mavericks (#1 in Central Region) went down to Oklahoma City for a season opening contest against the Central Oklahoma Bronchos. UCO, ranked #10 in the Central Region, tried to pull off the upset, but couldn't stop the Maverick attack from scoring twice.
Heading into the official season opener the Mavs won all three of their friendly matches. Those included an 11–0 thrashing of Iowa Lakes Community College, and 2–0 wins over Northwest Missouri State and Simpson College. Another benefit for Minnesota State is the fact that many of their players stay in Mankato over the summer and play for Mankato United, providing the players extra time together each year.
